Top 5 Benefits I have Experienced As a musician From The Carnivore Diet
I've been playing the flute professionally for over 20 years.
A year and a half ago, for health reasons, I fully committed to the carnivore diet. I was amazed not only by my improved health but also by the significant benefits it brought to my musicianship.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 5:
1. Improved Focus:
After years of struggling to concentrate during practice, I can now focus longer and achieve my daily practice goals more efficiently.
2. Reduced Muscle and Joint Pain:
Being 5'2" (158 cm) with short arms and fingers, I often experienced discomfort and pain while playing. A high-fat and protein diet has reduced inflammation and provided enough protein to build and sustain muscle mass. Without much exercise, I keep my body muscular and healthy, and I no longer suffer from playing injuries.
3. Stable Mood and Positive Mindset:
I used to wonder why my motivation to practise, my enjoyment of music, and my ability to get into the flow had diminished over my career. I thought it was the toll of playing for money, my illnesses, and personal factors. Once I changed my diet, I gained clarity, improved my sleep, stabilised my mood, stopped overthinking, and found joy in music again.
4. Better Sleep and Recovery:
I always knew the importance of sleep but still felt tired after 7-9 hours of rest. I had trouble falling asleep and woke up multiple times at night. Now, I sleep soundly, fall asleep quickly, wake up early with energy and enthusiasm, and feel refreshed. This gives me more energy to practise, makes me more positive, and helps me come up with new ideas for my playing. Overall, I spend less time in bed and feel much happier.
5. Consistent Performance Whether Hungry or Full:
I used to be controlled by food. I needed to eat to start my day and practise, and three-hour orchestra rehearsals felt endless. Even after breakfast, I’d be thinking about my next snack (an apple or an energy bar) to keep going. Feeling constantly hungry and tired made me irritable. I thought it was due to my "fast metabolism." I was wrong. It was the carbs I was eating that kept me wanting more. Now, I avoid all carbs. My meals satisfy me so well that I only need two a day, and without the sugar crashes, I can play right away without feeling tired and sluggish.
I believe a low-carb diet, specifically the carnivore diet, benefits musicians as we demand so much from our bodies and minds.
This diet provides all the essential nutrients, removes plant toxins, and eliminates the addiction and harmful effects of sugar. With a strong body and clear mind, the carnivore diet allows us to pursue our passion with maximum health and energy.
Can we ask for more as musicians?